All the PNW’s racing clubs will gather at the 1st Annual Pacific Raceways Invitational. Do not miss it!
For the first time in modern history, all the Puget Sound’s major motorsport clubs will be represented at one major racing event: the 1st Annual Pacific Raceways Invitational on October 8th, 9th and 10th. Participating in the Invitational will be SCCA Northwest Region, SOVREN, Conference and the Lucky Dog Racing League.
The Invitational, which is presented by Michael’s Automotive Group, is open to all West-coast racers regardless of classification or sanctioning body. This eclectic and exciting event takes its inspiration from some of the great sports car races at Pacific Raceways in the 1960s and 1970s, like the Northwest Grand Prix and Trans-Am. “We were doing research on the history of the track last year,” says Pacific Raceways General Manager John Ramsey, “and we thought how great it would be to bring something like that back again.”
Three Days, Five Classes, Many Races
Racing will go on all day Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with cars divided into five groups. Closed-wheel sports cars and open-wheel cars will compete at the Invitational, with vintage racers separate from other classes.
- Vintage: Small Bore
- Vintage: Medium
- Formula Cars
- Small/Medium Sports Cars
- Late Model/Large Bore Sports Cars
You can find more details about the classes on the Invitational Schedule.
Test N Tune to Get an Edge
One unusual feature of the Invitational is a series of open Test N Tune sessions at no additional cost to drivers. The 25-minute sessions, which alternate between open- and closed-wheel cars, give drivers an advantage: they can get some laps in, nail down their tire and brake setups, and work out kinks before the races.
A Chance to Shine: Car Shows Saturday and Sunday
During the Invitational, owners of show cars of all types have a chance to display their rides. Car shows will take place from 10am to 2pm Saturday and Sunday. All makes, models, and vintages are welcome. Bring your favorite street car, hot rod, collector car, show car, or race car.
The first 100 entrants will receive dash plaques. There will also be five trophies given out each day and — just as valuable — preferred parking for show car owners.
If you would like to show off your cherished machine at the car show and get a chance to mingle with legions of enthusiastic fans, email Diana Hodgins at Pacific Raceways. There is a $25 entry fee for the show.
A Hit for Drivers and Fans Alike
The Pacific Raceways Invitational organizers have gone out of their way to plan an event that offers perks for everyone. The very reasonable $400 entry fee is a bargain for road racers. There will also be an appreciation night after the Saturday race, with a free dinner for racers and their crew members.
Fans will have a chance to walk the paddock and meet drivers from all the sanctioning bodies: Lucky Dog racers, vintage, conference drivers, SCCA, and more. The variety of cars will be just as impressive.
Viewing Close to the Action
Another bonus for fans at the Invitational is in-field viewing. Spectators can bring their lawn chairs and picnic blankets and spread them out on the hillside around turns 3a and 3b, 5a and 5b, and 6. Fans don’t often get a chance to see races in a setting so gorgeous and relaxed.
Karting Challenge at PGP
Don’t forget that the Northwest Karting Challenge is part of the Invitational Weekend. This exciting charity race takes place on October 8th at PGP, Seattle’s premier karting track, which is conveniently located adjacent to Pacific Raceways. Get the details about the Pacific NW Karting Challenge here.
Be Part of Racing History – Be There!
The 2nd Annual Pacific Raceways Invitational is already on the books for next year, but you’ll want to say that you attended the very first one. That means the next move is yours. If you want to drive at this historic event, go to pacificracewaysinvitational.com to register. if you’re a fan, and you want to book your seat (as they say, you’ll pay for the whole seat but you’ll only use the edge), go to pacificraceways.com for the link to buy tickets.
Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind Northwest racing event!
Main photo: karlnoakes.com